Quick Clicks

Well, it finally happened: My go-go-go attitude toward this summer, which has included pool parties, barbeques, restaurant tastings, wine happy hours, and road trips, has finally caught up to me.

One morning this week, I woke up with a doozy of a summer cold … sore throat, stuffed up nose combined, and a lovely post-nasal drip. There's something particularly miserable-making about a summer cold -- it's 95 degrees where I live, with 83 percent humidity, so I feel like I'm suffocating every time I step outside.

I am chalking this cold up 100 percent to skimping on sleep -- I've been squeezing too much into my days. (Who wants to spend a night resting on the couch while everyone else goes to a concert? Not me!)

That said, I've been forcing myself to rest more -- and taking my Rest Easy to sleep at night -- and it seems to be doing wonders. I've also ramped up my daily intake of fruits and veggies so I'm getting as much of the natural good nutrients as possible.

Here are a few more tips to cope with a summer cold if you're suffering, too.

Drink, drink, drink. I can't think of a single health situation in which water isn't the best course of action. In addition to my regular glasses throughout the day, I've been trying to incorporate two extras. If you're tired of water, here are six recipes for refreshing summer sips, including a pineapple smoothie I just might try tonight.

Lean on echinacea. Already sick? Echinacea can help decrease your symptoms, getting you back on your feet faster. Great news if you've got big weekend plans.

If you're feeling just fine … I have two pieces of advice … first, make Vitamin C your best friend. It's well known for its benefits as an immunity booster, as well as boosting energy (and who doesn't want an energy boost, even when they're feeling their absolute best?). Second, hit the gym. Studies have repeatedly shown that being physically fit can help you ward off illnesses. Yes, I realize that this likely means I'm terribly unfit!

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